The State of Technology

Wednesday, August 20 | 8:30 a.m. to Noon The Fargo Theatre On and Off Broadway, 314 Broadway North

Pre-registration is closed, but you may register at the door.

The Chamber and Senator John Hoeven offer the business community an opportunity to learn about the latest technology revolutionizing commerce in the state. We’ve moved the event downtown, which is quickly becoming a hub of creative energy and dynamic change. With a number of engaging speakers, the event will leave you feeling inspired and excited about the future of technology and its role within your business.

Event Emcee

Katie Hasbargen, Microsoft

Opening Remarks

U.S. Senator John Hoeven

Keynote Presentation

Doug Burgum, Arthur Ventures / Kilbourne Group
The technology sector in our state is a driving factor in the success of our economy; Burgum will highlight how public policy about technology has a dramatic effect on the workforce and the state as a whole.

Dakota Fiber Initiative Update

Gary Inman, Board President of Information Technology Council of North Dakota
At State of Technology last year, Burgum issued a challenge to the state of North Dakota to develop the fastest internet available, which became the Dakota Fiber Initiative. Inman will describe what has happened since then and what the next steps are. You will also see a live demonstration of gigabit internet meant to spark ideas of the possibilities it presents. The 1 gigabit fiber internet service will be provided by Enventis.

Digital and Mobile Imaging

Through a collaboration with Sanford Health, GE has revolutionized its digital imaging process in a way that means you will receive lower radiation doses and more dynamic x-rays and ultrasounds images, which will provide improved medical diagnosis. Kevin Czarnecki, Susan Brown and Peter Boesen from General Electric will also talk about Sanford’s self-contained mobile imaging units called O.P.C. mobileMed that debuted in western North Dakota in March.

Health Care Operational Intelligence

Intelligent InSites' president and CEO Shane Waslaski will talk about how the company is setting operational intelligence standards for the healthcare industry by enabling healthcare providers to deliver the safest, most effective healing in a way that allows the patient’s experience to be unmarred by waste and inefficiency.

Storefront: Online Marketing

Learn how Tristan Pollock’s a love of entrepreneurship and a passion for revitalizing local economies turned into creating an online marketplace for renting physical retail spaces. Storefront is connecting brands to short-term retail space in four major U.S. cities and has helped generate more than $40 million in merchandise revenue for its partners. We are excited to have Tristan join us and the #1mcfar crowd at #stateoftech14.

Location-Based Mobile Technology

Imagine a transformed shopping experience where your weekly grocery list becomes a virtual map complete with the details, deals and ideas upon entering your local store. Or imagine watching thousands of your fellow alumni travel across the county to cheer on your favorite sports team. Location-based mobile technology is revolutionizing the way we interact with our everyday world, limited only by our curiosity to embrace it. Tim Brookins, inventor of the Bison Tracker, founder of Proud Crowd and Microsoft distinguished engineer, along with the master of all things mobile, Jake Joraanstad, co-founder and CEO of Myriad Mobile, will inspire you to integrate this top tech trend into your business strategies.

Mobile Ordering Service

Jean Maaske, aka Mama Jean, will highlight how Z!ng’s patent-pending phone application ordering system allows for unprecedented customer convenience and restaurant efficiencies as a way to bring a healthier version of our favorite comfort foods to the community.

The event will also feature an award ceremony for the Information Technology Council of North Dakota, which will award individuals in the following categories: